MANILA – The Department of Education (DepEd) refuted a news report suggesting that two teachers succumbed to heatstroke while conducting classes in Iloilo, labeling it as “misleading.”
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the DepEd clarified that although there were indeed two reported deaths of teachers, they were not caused by heatstroke. According to DepEd records, one teacher from Sta. Barbara passed away in February 2024 due to Hypertensive Cardiovascular Disease, while another teacher passed away in March 2024 due to Aneurysm. Both incidents occurred while the teachers were at home.
The clarification came in response to a Facebook post by XFM Radyo Patrol Iloilo, which claimed that both teachers died while conducting classes.
DepEd expressed disappointment over the sensationalization of the teachers’ deaths by certain news outlets, emphasizing the importance of accurate and factual reporting.
The department extended its condolences to the families of the deceased teachers.
Before this clarification, DepEd had authorized local school heads to adjust class schedules due to the intense heat caused by the prevailing weather conditions. In cases where face-to-face classes are suspended, classes automatically shift to modular distance learning, as reiterated by DepEd deputy spokesperson Asec. Francis Bringas.
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